Halloween is

Radio personality Elvis Duran is very wise. He once said “Halloween is not only about putting on a costume, but it’s about finding the imagination and costume within ourselves.”

Sad news

I just learned the sad news that someone I have worked with took his own life earlier this week. He was such a bright star and will certainly be missed. It's hard to believe that he is gone, and even harder that it was as a result of suicide. Every life is important.

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free 

and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources 

for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

988

Stop the violence

Children were playing games at a party in a bowling alley.
Locals were drinking and dining at a restaurant.
Last night seemed normal – until it was rocked by the latest horrific act of gun violence.

When will this stop?  When will people care enough to do something.

We need kindness in America.  Stop the violence NOW!

make a difference

We can all make a positive difference in the world, and personally I think it should be an ongoing thing. Today though there is a special spotlight. It is Make a Difference Day. What can each of us to to improve the lives of others?  Being kind is a very good beginning!

paraskevidekatriaphobia

Are you afraid?  Don't be.  Paraskevidekatriaphobia (fear of Friday the 13th) is easily overcome with a smile and a confidence that this day can be just as good as any other.  Be kind to yourself.  Never fear. 

smile

Smile. Do it a lot. You will find it contagious and notice others smiling too. Oh and just for some added incentive, today is World Smile Day.

remembering her kindness

Funerals are sad occasions of course, but it was so very uplifting to hear the positive words spoken yesterday about Dianne Feinstein.  One of the things I heard over and over was talk about her great kindness.  What a wonderful way to be remembered!

do something nice

Today is National Do Something Nice Day. You KNOW I had to mention it here, huh? It's an actual commemoration on the calendar and it's a perfect time to showcase our kindness.  In the comments below, I'd love to hear about some of the nice things you do today!

Saint Francis Day

On this day honoring Francis of Assisi, these words attributed to him: "Lord, make us instruments of your peace. Where there is hatred, let us sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is discord, union; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. Grant that we may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life."

Happy birthday Jimmy Carter!

James Earl Carter Jr. was born October 1, 1924, in Plains, GA, at the Wise Sanitarium (the first American president born in a hospital), the son of Bessie Lillian Gordy and James Earl Carter Sr.  He was the nation's 39th President, but I think he is known more for his great kindness all that he gives back.  Today he turns 99! Happy birthday Jimmy Carter and thank you so much for making a difference!